YUMA, Ariz. - The Arizona Western women's basketball team (8-7, 1-0) mounted a spirited comeback to stun Central Arizona College (10-6, 0-1) 57-55 in a thrilling conference and rivalry matchup Saturday afternoon at "The House." The Matadors overcame an 11-point third-quarter deficit and sealed the win with clutch free throws and a game-saving defensive stand.

Chen Pan powered the Matadors tying a career high 23 points on 8-of-16 shooting, including two 3-pointers and five free throws, while also collecting two steals in 38 minutes of action.

Central Arizona jumped out early, taking an 18-14 lead after the first quarter and stretching the margin to nine at halftime, 34-25. Arizona Western struggled to find offensive rhythm in the first half, with Central Arizona's defense forcing tough shots and limiting second-chance opportunities.

The contest shifted in the third quarter as Arizona Western began clamping down defensively, forcing turnovers and gradually cutting into the deficit. After falling behind by 11 points in the opening minute of the second half, the Matadors responded with a run to close within four at 44-40 entering the fourth. The defensive intensity carried over, as Arizona Western limited Central Arizona to just 12 points in the final quarter.

The final minute was a showcase of grit and poise. After Mable Doumbia tied the game at 55 with a crucial jumper, Kimora Jenkins calmly sank two free throws with 32 seconds left to give Arizona Western a 57-55 edge. Central Arizona answered with a free throw, but the Matadors' defense stood tall on the final possession, as Doumbia secured the last rebound after a missed three-pointer at the buzzer.

Garance Soulas provided a spark with 12 points and three assists, while Doumbia anchored the effort with 12 rebounds, six assists and a key block. Marta Vieira contributed three steals to help fuel the defensive turnaround.

Up Next

Arizona Western extends its win streak to three and will look to make it four in a row as ACCAC play continues Wednesday, Jan. 14, with the Lady Matadors traveling to Cochise College for a 5:30 p.m. tip-off in Douglas, Ariz.